🚂 Amtrak Hiawatha Service
Train from Milwaukee to Chicago — Schedule, Times & Tickets
Everything you need to book and plan the Milwaukee–Chicago train. Hiawatha schedule, live times, ticket prices, station info, and airport connections — all in one place.
~90Miles by train
1h 29mTypical journey time
$19–$37One-way fare range
7×Daily roundtrips
6Sunday roundtrips
Milwaukee
Intermodal Station
▶
Hiawatha · ~90 mi · 1h 29m
▶
Chicago
Union Station
Route Overview
Milwaukee to Chicago Train — Quick Overview
The train from Milwaukee to Chicago is one of the most practical short intercity rail routes in the Midwest. Operated by Amtrak as the Hiawatha Service, it connects downtown Milwaukee WI directly to Chicago Union Station IL in about 1 hour 29 minutes, covering roughly 90 miles with no transfer required. The Milwaukee WI to Chicago IL train is the only direct intercity rail option between these two cities.
If you're searching "is there a train from Milwaukee to Chicago" — yes, the Amtrak Hiawatha runs multiple times daily. Whether you're searching for trains from Milwaukee to Chicago for a business meeting, a day trip, a weekend visit, or a commute, the Hiawatha gives you multiple daily departure choices spread across the morning, midday, afternoon, and evening — making same-day return planning straightforward.
| Route Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Route name | Amtrak Hiawatha Service |
| From | Milwaukee Intermodal Station (MKE) |
| To | Chicago Union Station (CHI) |
| Distance | ~90 miles |
| Typical journey time | 1 hour 29 minutes |
| Ticket price range | $19 – $37 one-way |
| Daily roundtrips | 7 weekday/Saturday · 6 Sunday |
| Transfer required? | No — direct train |
| Intermediate stops | Milwaukee Airport, Sturtevant, Glenview |
💡 Quick Insight
For downtown-to-downtown travel, the Milwaukee to Chicago train is the most direct and predictable option — no parking, no traffic, no airport check-in. The Hiawatha begins and ends at major urban rail stations, making the full trip feel faster and more manageable than the distance alone suggests.
Train Schedule & Times
Milwaukee to Chicago Train Schedule & Train Times 2026
The Milwaukee to Chicago train schedule runs multiple times daily with departures spread through the day. The official train times from Milwaukee to Chicago are published by Amtrak and updated periodically. Amtrak's current Hiawatha timetable shows seven roundtrips on weekdays and Saturday, and six roundtrips on Sunday. Below is the full southbound train schedule from Milwaukee to Chicago — from Milwaukee Downtown to Chicago Union Station.
6:15 AM
→ Chicago 7:57 AM
1h 42m
Mon–Sat only
8:05 AM
→ Chicago 9:34 AM
1h 29m
Daily
11:00 AM
→ Chicago 12:29 PM
1h 29m
Daily
1:05 PM
→ Chicago 2:34 PM
1h 29m
Daily
3:00 PM
→ Chicago 4:29 PM
1h 29m
Daily
7:35 PM
→ Chicago 9:04 PM
1h 29m
Daily
11:25 PM
→ Chicago 12:54 AM
1h 29m
Friday only
Full Milwaukee to Chicago Train Timetable
| Departs Milwaukee | Arrives Chicago | Duration | Days of Operation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 AM | 7:57 AM | 1h 42m | Monday – Saturday | Earliest departure; not available Sunday |
| 8:05 AM | 9:34 AM | 1h 29m | Daily | Good for business and commute travel |
| 11:00 AM | 12:29 PM | 1h 29m | Daily | Relaxed midday option |
| 1:05 PM | 2:34 PM | 1h 29m | Daily | Afternoon flexibility |
| 3:00 PM | 4:29 PM | 1h 29m | Daily | Good for same-day return travelers |
| 7:35 PM | 9:04 PM | 1h 29m | Daily | Evening departure after work or events |
| 11:25 PM | 12:54 AM | 1h 29m | Friday only | Late-night Friday option — Train 343 |
Weekday, Saturday & Sunday Train Frequency
The Milwaukee to Chicago train times are consistent across most days, with one notable difference: the earliest 6:15 AM departure runs Monday through Saturday only — Sunday travelers start at 8:05 AM. The Friday-only 11:25 PM train (Train 343) is a useful late-night option for travel into Chicago at the start of the weekend. Trains from Milwaukee to Chicago on Sunday follow the same schedule as weekdays except for that first early departure, so weekend day-trippers have nearly the full slate of options available.
Looking for the train from Milwaukee to Chicago on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday? All seven daily departures run on Friday and Saturday. On Sundays you get the same six daytime departures (8:05 AM through 7:35 PM), just without the earliest 6:15 AM train.
⚠️ Schedule Notice
This timetable is based on the current Amtrak Hiawatha schedule. Times can change on holidays or for service updates — always verify on Amtrak's official website before your travel date.
Duration & Distance
How Long Is the Train Ride from Milwaukee to Chicago?
The standard train time from Milwaukee to Chicago is approximately 1 hour 29 minutes on the Amtrak Hiawatha. Most scheduled southbound departures run at this duration, making it one of the most efficient short intercity routes in the Midwest. So when people ask "how long is the train ride from Milwaukee to Chicago?" — the short answer is just under 90 minutes for most departures.
The only exception is the earliest 6:15 AM southbound departure, which is timetabled at 1 hour 42 minutes — slightly longer than the standard run. The full train ride from Milwaukee to Chicago covers roughly 90 miles of track through southeastern Wisconsin and northeastern Illinois.
| Detail | Figure | Planning Note |
|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee to Chicago distance (by rail) | ~90 miles | Short enough for a comfortable day trip |
| Standard train journey time | ~1h 29m | Most daily southbound trains |
| Earliest train journey time | ~1h 42m | 6:15 AM Mon–Sat departure only |
| Driving time (no traffic) | ~1h 40m+ | Train avoids Chicago traffic entirely |
| Bus journey time (Greyhound) | ~1h 45m | Slightly slower than the train |
📌 Key Takeaway
At under 90 minutes, the Milwaukee to Chicago train is fast enough for a same-day business trip but comfortable enough to read, work, or relax. It beats driving once you factor in Chicago parking and traffic — and beats the bus on raw journey time.
Train Ticket Prices
Milwaukee to Chicago Train Ticket Prices, Fare & Cost
The current official Milwaukee to Chicago train cost ranges from $19 to $37 one-way on the Amtrak Hiawatha, with pricing based on demand and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. The published train fare from Milwaukee to Chicago sits in a relatively narrow band compared with many US rail routes, making the corridor practical for one-time visitors and repeat commuters alike. Travelers asking "how much is the train from Milwaukee to Chicago?" can expect to pay near the lower end of the range with advance booking.
For travelers searching cheap train tickets from Milwaukee to Chicago, the best strategy is to book early and choose off-peak departures — fares trend toward $19 for low-demand departures, and toward $37 for last-minute or peak-time trains.
Train Fare from Milwaukee to Chicago — Tickets, Round Trip & Monthly Pass
| Ticket Type | Price | Best For | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-way fare | $19 – $37 | Most travelers | Varies by demand and advance purchase |
| 10-ride ticket | Up to $230 | Frequent corridor travelers | Better value for repeat use |
| Monthly pass | $650 | Regular commuters | Routine Chicago–Milwaukee commuting |
| Child fare (ages 2–12) | 50% off adult fare | Families | One child per fare-paying adult |
| Infant (under 2) | Free | Families with infants | One infant per fare-paying adult |
| Senior discount | 10% off | Senior travelers | Available on most trains |
What Affects the Milwaukee to Chicago Train Price?
The Milwaukee to Chicago train price moves within the $19–$37 band based on two main factors: demand for that specific departure and how far in advance you buy. Busy departures and last-minute purchases trend toward the higher end. Flexible travelers who check a few departure options often find tickets closer to $19.
Round Trip Train Tickets & Monthly Pass Milwaukee to Chicago
For travelers planning a same-day or short-stay return, round trip train tickets Milwaukee to Chicago are simply two one-way tickets — Amtrak doesn't sell discounted return-only fares on the Hiawatha. Buying a return ticket independently lets you mix and match departure times. For regular commuters, the monthly train pass from Milwaukee to Chicago at $650/month is the most cost-effective option — it pays for itself if you take more than about 18 one-way trips per month at average fare. The 10-ride ticket (up to $230) sits in the middle and works well for travelers making 6+ round trips.
💰 Price Tip
For train tickets from Milwaukee to Chicago, booking even a few days in advance can make a difference within this corridor. The 10-ride ticket (up to $230) becomes useful if you expect to make six or more return trips on this route — it typically works out cheaper than individual one-way purchases at higher demand fares.
Milwaukee to Chicago Train Cost vs Other Travel Options
| Travel Mode | Typical Base Cost | Hidden Costs to Add | Total Value Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚂 Train (Hiawatha) | $19 – $37 | None for downtown-to-downtown | Strong value for city-center travel |
| 🚌 Bus (Greyhound) | From ~$22.48 | None, but journey is longer | Lower base cost; slower trip |
| 🚗 Car | Fuel + tolls | Chicago parking $25–$60/day | Convenience depends on itinerary |
Amtrak Hiawatha Service
Amtrak Hiawatha Train from Milwaukee to Chicago — What's Onboard
The Amtrak train from Milwaukee to Chicago is operated exclusively as the Hiawatha Service. There are no other intercity train operators on this corridor — the Hiawatha train from Milwaukee to Chicago is the train to focus on. It's designed as a short corridor service, not a long-distance national rail journey, which means the onboard setup is practical and comfortable rather than feature-heavy.
One common question: is there a bullet train or high-speed train from Milwaukee to Chicago? The answer is no — the Hiawatha is a conventional intercity train, not a bullet train or high-speed rail. Top speeds are around 79 mph and the average journey takes 1h 29m. There are ongoing proposals to upgrade the corridor, but as of 2026, the Hiawatha remains the standard Amtrak service.
Amtrak Hiawatha — Classes and Onboard Features
| Feature / Class | What It Includes | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Coach Class | Wide reclining seats, legroom, tray tables, reading lights, power outlets, restrooms | All trains — standard option |
| Business Class | Upgraded seating above Coach | Trains 332 and 341 only |
| Quiet Car | Low-noise environment — phones on silent, no calls, minimal conversation | All Hiawatha trains |
| Wi-Fi Onboard | Basic internet for light browsing and work | All trains |
| Power Outlets | Seat-level outlets for charging | Coach Class throughout |
| Pet Travel | Small dogs and cats in approved carriers (20 lb combined limit) | Coach Class; Hiawatha eligible route |
| Carry-on Luggage | 1 personal item + 2 carry-on bags | All passengers |
Which Train Is Best for Different Travelers?
| Traveler Type | Best Choice | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Business travelers | Early Hiawatha (6:15 or 8:05 AM) | Arrive in Chicago early; Quiet Car supports focused work |
| Day-trippers | 11:00 AM or 1:05 PM departure | Good balance of a relaxed start and full afternoon in Chicago |
| Weekend leisure travelers | Midday or afternoon train | No need for early start; flexible return timing |
| Commuters (Milwaukee–Chicago) | 6:15 or 8:05 AM outbound; evening return | Standard commute pattern matches the timetable well |
| Travelers wanting upgrade | Business Class on Train 332 or 341 | Only upgraded seating option on this corridor |
| Quiet / work-focused riders | Any Hiawatha — use the Quiet Car | Available on every Hiawatha train; ideal for focused travel |
| Late Friday night departure | 11:25 PM Train 343 | Only Friday-only late-night option on the schedule |
🔔 Note on Metra
Searches for Metra train Chicago to Milwaukee are common, but Metra does not serve Milwaukee. Metra is Chicago's commuter rail network and its routes end within the Chicago metro area. The only intercity train between Milwaukee and Chicago is Amtrak's Hiawatha Service.
Stations & Stops
Milwaukee to Chicago Train Stations — Where to Board & Arrive
The Milwaukee to Chicago train uses dedicated intercity rail stations at both ends, plus two intermediate stops. If you're searching for the train station in Milwaukee to Chicago, the main departure point is the Milwaukee Intermodal Station in downtown Milwaukee. The Milwaukee train station to Chicago route ends at Chicago Union Station in the heart of downtown Chicago. Here's what to know about each station on the Hiawatha corridor.
Departure — Milwaukee
Milwaukee Intermodal Station
Milwaukee Downtown, WI
433 West St. Paul Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53203
Milwaukee, WI 53203
Station building with waiting room, commercial spaces, and offices. The main departure point for all Hiawatha trains.
Arrival — Chicago
Chicago Union Station
Chicago, Illinois
255 South Clinton Street
Chicago, IL 60606
Chicago, IL 60606
Major Midwestern rail hub. Metropolitan Lounge on site. Strong onward connections to downtown Chicago and national rail routes.
Airport Stop (Intermediate)
Milwaukee Airport Rail Station
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
5601 South 6th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53221
Milwaukee, WI 53221
Free shuttle bus connects to General Mitchell International Airport (Baggage Claim Door 4). Ideal for airport-linked travel.
Other Stops on the Hiawatha Corridor
| Stop | State | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Downtown (MKE) | Wisconsin | Main departure point — Intermodal Station |
| Milwaukee Airport (MKA) | Wisconsin | Airport access via free shuttle |
| Sturtevant (RVS) | Wisconsin | Intermediate stop in Racine County |
| Glenview (GLN) | Illinois | Suburban Chicago stop on north side |
| Chicago Union Station (CHI) | Illinois | Final destination — major rail hub |
Train Route & Stops
Milwaukee to Chicago Train Route, Path & Stops
The Milwaukee to Chicago train route follows the historic Hiawatha corridor — a direct rail path running north-to-south along the western shore of Lake Michigan. The train line from Milwaukee to Chicago covers approximately 90 miles, crossing from Wisconsin into Illinois with four scheduled stops along the way. There is only one train route from Milwaukee to Chicago, operated as Amtrak's Hiawatha Service.
Milwaukee to Chicago Train Stops in Order
Travelers looking up Milwaukee to Chicago train stops often want to know which stations the train passes through between the two endpoints. The train from Milwaukee to Chicago stops at four intermediate points before reaching Chicago Union Station — three in Wisconsin and one in Illinois:
| Stop Order | Station | State | Role on the Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Start) | Milwaukee Intermodal | Wisconsin | Departure point — downtown Milwaukee |
| 2 | Milwaukee Airport | Wisconsin | Dedicated airport rail stop |
| 3 | Sturtevant | Wisconsin | Racine County intermediate stop |
| 4 | Glenview | Illinois | North suburban Chicago stop |
| 5 (End) | Chicago Union Station | Illinois | Arrival — downtown Chicago |
Path of the Train from Milwaukee to Chicago
The path of the train from Milwaukee to Chicago runs roughly parallel to Interstate 94, taking the inland route rather than hugging the lakeshore. After leaving Milwaukee Intermodal Station, the train heads south through southeastern Wisconsin — Milwaukee Airport, then Sturtevant — before crossing the Illinois state line and stopping at Glenview, a suburban hub north of downtown Chicago. From Glenview the train continues south into Chicago and terminates at Union Station in the Loop.
This is the only direct train line from Milwaukee to Chicago. The nearest alternative would involve commuter rail transfers via Metra in the Chicago region, but those don't connect to Milwaukee — only the Hiawatha makes the full corridor in a single, no-transfer ride.
📍 Quick Route Fact
The Hiawatha corridor is one of the busiest short-distance rail routes in the Midwest. The full Milwaukee to Chicago train route takes 1h 29m on most trains, with four intermediate stops giving travelers from southeast Wisconsin direct access to downtown Chicago.
Airport Train Connections
Milwaukee Airport to Chicago Train, O'Hare & Midway Connections
Several airport-related searches are common for this route: Milwaukee Airport to Chicago train, train from Milwaukee to Chicago O'Hare, and train from Milwaukee to Chicago Midway. Here's a clear breakdown of each.
Milwaukee Airport to Chicago by Train
If you're flying into General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) and need to reach Chicago, the Hiawatha is a strong option. The Milwaukee Airport Rail Station is a dedicated stop on the Hiawatha corridor — a free shuttle bus connects the station to Baggage Claim Door 4 at the airport. The Milwaukee airport train to Chicago runs on the same daily schedule as the main Hiawatha service.
From the Airport Rail Station, you board the Hiawatha directly to Chicago Union Station. No transfer to Milwaukee Downtown is needed.
Train from Chicago O'Hare to Milwaukee
There is no direct intercity train from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Milwaukee. Travelers arriving at O'Hare typically take the CTA Blue Line subway to downtown Chicago, then connect to the Hiawatha at Chicago Union Station for the rail leg to Milwaukee.
Train from Milwaukee to Chicago Airport (O'Hare or Midway)
The Hiawatha arrives at Chicago Union Station, not directly at O'Hare or Midway. For travelers searching train from Milwaukee to Chicago O'Hare or train from Milwaukee to Chicago O'Hare airport, the route is: Hiawatha to Union Station, then CTA Blue Line to O'Hare. For train from Milwaukee to Chicago Midway or train from Milwaukee to Chicago Midway airport, take the Hiawatha to Union Station, then CTA Orange Line to Midway. The milwaukee to chicago o'hare train and milwaukee to chicago midway train both require this one transfer at Union Station — there's no direct Amtrak service to either airport.
| Journey Need | Best Approach | Key Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Airport → Chicago | Board Hiawatha at Milwaukee Airport Rail Station | Free shuttle: Airport → Rail Station |
| Chicago O'Hare → Milwaukee | CTA Blue Line to Union Station → Hiawatha | O'Hare → Chicago Union Station → Milwaukee |
| Milwaukee → Chicago O'Hare | Hiawatha to Union Station → CTA Blue Line | Milwaukee → Union Station → O'Hare Blue Line |
| Milwaukee → Chicago Midway | Hiawatha to Union Station → CTA Orange Line | Milwaukee → Union Station → Midway Orange Line |
| Milwaukee → Chicago Union Station | Direct Hiawatha — no transfer | Downtown-to-downtown: simplest option |
📌 Airport Connection Note
For most simple city-to-city travel, the Milwaukee to Chicago train arriving at Union Station is the cleanest option. Airport connections add steps and time — plan for CTA transit or taxi from Union Station if your final destination is O'Hare or Midway.
Journey Experience
What to Expect on the Milwaukee to Chicago Train
The Milwaukee to Chicago train experience is built around simplicity: a proper station departure, a short and comfortable rail ride, and a central city arrival. Here's the full journey step by step.
| Stage | What Happens | Planning Note |
|---|---|---|
| Before you leave | Head to Milwaukee Intermodal Station at 433 W St. Paul Ave | Allow time for parking or transit to the station |
| At Milwaukee station | Enter the station building; wait in the dedicated passenger area | Proper waiting room — arrive 15–20 minutes before departure |
| Boarding | Board the Hiawatha on the platform | Reserved coach class — choose any open seat once onboard |
| During the ride | ~1h 29m journey; Wi-Fi, outlets, Quiet Car available | Good for work, reading, or relaxing — short enough to feel efficient |
| Arrival in Chicago | Arrive at Chicago Union Station, 255 S Clinton Street | Central downtown location — easy access to Loop, transit, taxis |
| Onward from Union Station | Walk to downtown, take CTA, grab a cab or rideshare | Station is well connected to all Chicago transit options |
💼
Business travelers
Take the 8:05 AM train, use the Quiet Car, and reach Chicago by 9:34 AM — in time for a 10 AM meeting.
🎭
Day-trippers
Take the 11:00 AM train, spend 4–5 hours in Chicago, and return on the 7:35 PM evening departure.
🛄
Luggage
1 personal item + 2 carry-ons allowed. No checked baggage service on this short corridor route.
🐾
Traveling with pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in approved carriers. 20 lb combined weight limit. Coach class only.
Tips & Commuting
Money-Saving Tips & Commuting Milwaukee to Chicago by Train
The Hiawatha's published fare range of $19–$37 is already manageable compared with many US rail routes. These strategies help you get the best value on train tickets from Milwaukee to Chicago, whether you're a one-time visitor or a regular commuter.
Commuter Train from Milwaukee to Chicago
Yes, the Hiawatha works as a commuter train from Milwaukee to Chicago. While Amtrak doesn't market it as a commuter rail service, the frequency, downtown-to-downtown route, and dedicated monthly pass make the commuter train Milwaukee to Chicago a practical option for daily or weekly travelers. The 6:15 AM and 8:05 AM southbound trains pair well with evening returns at 3:00 PM, 7:35 PM, or even the Friday 11:25 PM late departure. For anyone doing the Milwaukee–Chicago corridor 4+ times per week, the $650 monthly pass is the most cost-effective option.
| Strategy | How It Helps | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Book in advance | Fares are demand-based; early booking often means lower end of the $19–$37 range | Anyone with a firm travel date |
| Choose off-peak times | Midday departures (11 AM, 1 PM) may have lower demand than rush-hour trains | Flexible travelers |
| Use the 10-ride ticket | Up to $230 for 10 rides — better than individual fares at higher demand pricing | 6+ round trips expected |
| Monthly pass | $650/month for unlimited Milwaukee–Chicago rail travel | Regular commuters |
| Child fares | Ages 2–12 ride at 50% off; under-2 free (one per adult) | Families |
| Senior discount | 10% off on most trains — apply at booking | 65+ travelers |
| Check AAA / Rail Pass discounts | Amtrak often offers AAA and other affinity discounts | AAA members and rail pass holders |
💡 Total Cost Comparison
A $28 Hiawatha ticket often represents better value than driving once you add Chicago parking ($25–$60/day), fuel (~$10 each way), and tolls (~$6 round trip). For downtown-to-downtown travel, the train eliminates all of those costs — and the stress of city traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Milwaukee to Chicago Train — FAQ
Is there a direct train from Milwaukee to Chicago?
Yes. The Amtrak Hiawatha Service is a direct train linking Milwaukee and Chicago — no transfer required. The train makes intermediate stops at Milwaukee Airport, Sturtevant (WI), and Glenview (IL) before reaching Chicago Union Station.
How long is the train ride from Milwaukee to Chicago?
Most Hiawatha trains run the Milwaukee to Chicago route in about 1 hour 29 minutes. The earliest 6:15 AM Monday–Saturday departure takes approximately 1 hour 42 minutes. All other listed departures are timetabled at the standard 1h 29m duration.
What is the train fare from Milwaukee to Chicago?
Current Hiawatha fares for train tickets from Milwaukee to Chicago range from $19 to $37 one-way, based on demand and advance purchase. Frequent travelers can use a 10-ride ticket (up to $230) or a monthly pass ($650).
What time does the first train from Milwaukee to Chicago leave?
The first train departs Milwaukee Intermodal Station at 6:15 AM Monday through Saturday, arriving at Chicago Union Station at 7:57 AM. On Sundays, the first available departure is at 8:05 AM, arriving at 9:34 AM.
Does the Hiawatha train run on Sundays?
Yes. Amtrak runs six roundtrips on Sunday (compared with seven on weekdays and Saturday). The 6:15 AM departure does not operate on Sundays — Sunday service begins with the 8:05 AM train.
Which stations does the Milwaukee to Chicago train use?
Southbound trains depart from Milwaukee Intermodal Station (433 W St. Paul Ave, Milwaukee) and arrive at Chicago Union Station (255 S Clinton Street, Chicago). The route also stops at Milwaukee Airport Rail Station, Sturtevant, and Glenview.
Can I take the train from Milwaukee Airport to Chicago?
Yes. The Milwaukee Airport Rail Station (5601 S 6th Street) is a dedicated Hiawatha stop. A free shuttle connects between the train station and Baggage Claim Door 4 at General Mitchell International Airport. You can board the Hiawatha here directly for Chicago without traveling to Milwaukee Downtown first.
Is there a train from Chicago O'Hare to Milwaukee?
There is no direct intercity train from O'Hare to Milwaukee. The typical approach is: CTA Blue Line from O'Hare to downtown Chicago, then connect to the Amtrak Hiawatha at Chicago Union Station for the rail leg to Milwaukee.
Does Metra run trains to Milwaukee?
No. Metra does not serve Milwaukee. Metra is Chicago's commuter rail network and its routes operate within the greater Chicago metro area. The only intercity train between Milwaukee and Chicago is Amtrak's Hiawatha Service.
How many trains run from Milwaukee to Chicago each day?
There are seven roundtrips on weekdays and Saturday, and six roundtrips on Sunday. On Fridays, an additional late-night Train 343 departs Milwaukee at 11:25 PM and arrives in Chicago at 12:54 AM.
How far is Milwaukee from Chicago by train?
The Milwaukee to Chicago train distance is approximately 90 miles, making it one of the shorter short-haul intercity rail routes in the US Midwest — compact enough for comfortable day trips in either direction.
Can you take a train from Milwaukee to Chicago?
Yes — you can take the Amtrak Hiawatha train from Milwaukee to Chicago seven times daily on weekdays and Saturdays, and six times on Sundays. It's a direct trip with no transfers needed. The full journey takes about 1 hour 29 minutes.
How much is the train from Milwaukee to Chicago?
A one-way train ticket from Milwaukee to Chicago costs between $19 and $37 on the Amtrak Hiawatha. The exact price depends on demand and how far in advance you book. Booking early typically gets you closer to $19.
Is there a high-speed or bullet train from Milwaukee to Chicago?
No. There is no high-speed or bullet train from Milwaukee to Chicago. The Amtrak Hiawatha is a conventional intercity train with a top speed of about 79 mph and an average journey of 1h 29m. There have been past proposals for high-speed rail on the corridor, but none have been built.
What are the train stops from Milwaukee to Chicago?
The train from Milwaukee to Chicago stops at five stations in total: Milwaukee Intermodal (start), Milwaukee Airport, Sturtevant (WI), Glenview (IL), and Chicago Union Station (end). The full route covers approximately 90 miles.
How do I take the train from Milwaukee WI to Chicago IL?
To take the train from Milwaukee WI to Chicago IL, book a ticket on the Amtrak Hiawatha Service, then head to Milwaukee Intermodal Station (433 W St. Paul Ave). The train departs multiple times daily and arrives at Chicago Union Station (255 S Clinton St). Total journey time is around 1h 29m.
Is there a round-trip train ticket from Milwaukee to Chicago?
Amtrak doesn't sell a discounted round-trip fare on the Hiawatha — a round trip train ticket from Milwaukee to Chicago is simply two one-way tickets. The benefit is flexibility: you can choose any combination of southbound and northbound departures. Total round trip cost typically ranges from $38 to $74.
Is there a Metra train from Milwaukee to Chicago?
No. Metra does not run trains to Milwaukee. Metra is Chicago's commuter rail network, and all of its lines operate within the Chicago metropolitan area. The only train from Milwaukee to Chicago is Amtrak's Hiawatha Service. Searches for "Metra Milwaukee to Chicago" return the Hiawatha because it's the only matching route.
Can I commute by train from Milwaukee to Chicago daily?
Yes — the Hiawatha works as a commuter train from Milwaukee to Chicago. Frequent commuters typically buy a monthly train pass ($650/month) for unlimited rides, or a 10-ride ticket (up to $230) for less-than-daily use. The 6:15 AM and 8:05 AM trains are popular among Milwaukee–Chicago commuters.
Where is the train station in Milwaukee that goes to Chicago?
The main train station in Milwaukee that goes to Chicago is the Milwaukee Intermodal Station at 433 West St. Paul Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203. It's located in downtown Milwaukee. A second pickup point on the same route is the Milwaukee Airport Rail Station for travelers connecting from MKE airport.